THEOSISBeda Venerabilis
The prophets declared that if they remained steadfast in their efforts to construct the temple, they would, with divine assistance, not only finish the project but also receive an abundance of blessings as a reward for their faithfulness. Among their prophecies is the declaration of Zechariah: The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it, and you shall know that the Lord of hosts has sent me to you (Zech. 4:9). This indicates that when the temple is completed by Zerubbabel, its initial builder, it will confirm that I was sent by the Lord and communicated His commands.
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Haggai also speaks, urging, But turn your heart to the time from this day and backward, from the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, from the day when the temple of the Lord was founded; turn your heart: is there yet seed in the barns? Hitherto neither the vine, nor the fig tree, nor the pomegranate tree, nor the olive tree, has borne fruit: but from this day I will bless them (Haggai 2:18-19). The realities experienced confirm the truth of this prophecy. Additionally, all the prophets and the authors of Holy Scripture assure that those who undertake the building of the holy Church, particularly the teachers, will prosper if they withstand challenges and continue their sacred work. Divine support will ensure that the house of the Lord, initiated in the hearts of the faithful, is fulfilled through their faith and righteous conduct. Furthermore, the builders themselves will experience blessings in the forms of wheat, vine, fig tree, pomegranate tree, and olive tree, symbolizing the abundance of spiritual gifts. Undoubtedly, as we diligently construct this tabernacle of His glory—either within ourselves or in the hearts of those around us—the Lord will graciously provide even more.